First Impressions of Rite Edge Flying Dragon Linerlock Pur
The Rite Edge Flying Dragon Linerlock Pur arrived in a surprisingly small package, considering the features crammed into this little knife. Rite Edge isn’t a brand synonymous with high-end tactical gear, so I approached this review with cautious optimism, more driven by curiosity than expectation. The assisted opening, glass breaker, and belt cutter promised versatility, but the “purple coated stainless blade” and “dragon handle artwork” hinted at a design leaning more towards novelty than serious utility.
I was on the hunt for a compact EDC (Every Day Carry) knife that wouldn’t break the bank, something I could toss in my pack or glove compartment as a backup. I needed something that was multi-functional but also reliable. My usual go-to is a Benchmade Griptilian, but I wanted something cheaper that I wouldn’t mind roughing up.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the weight; at 0.34 lb, it feels substantial for its size. The aluminum handle, while lightweight, doesn’t inspire confidence, especially compared to my Spyderco Paramilitary 2 with its G-10 scales. The purple blade is… well, it’s purple. The dragon artwork is more reminiscent of a child’s fantasy than a tactical tool. I’d hoped for something more understated. My initial reaction was a mix of amusement and skepticism. It certainly wouldn’t replace my daily carry, but maybe, just maybe, it could serve a purpose.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rite Edge Flying Dragon Linerlock Pur to the Test
First Use Experience
I decided to give the Rite Edge Flying Dragon Linerlock Pur a trial run during a weekend camping trip. I needed something lightweight and easy to pack with the ability to get me through tasks such as cutting rope, prepping food, and whittling. I used it primarily for basic camp chores – cutting paracord, opening food packages, and feathering sticks for fire starting. The assisted opening was surprisingly snappy, though the liner lock felt a little flimsy.
The conditions were dry and mild, so the knife didn’t face any extreme weather. The blade held an edge decently enough for the tasks at hand, though I noticed some slight slippage when trying to carve harder wood. The grip, while ergonomic, became slick with even a little sweat, making it difficult to maintain a secure hold. The glass breaker and belt cutter remained untested; thankfully, I didn’t have any emergencies.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of intermittent use, the Rite Edge Flying Dragon Linerlock Pur is showing some wear. The purple coating on the blade has started to scratch off, revealing the stainless steel underneath. The liner lock has become slightly looser, requiring more careful engagement.
I’ve used it mostly for opening packages and cutting twine around the house. It has held up to these tasks. The aluminum handle has proven surprisingly resilient, showing only minor scuffs. Cleaning is straightforward – a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to my Gerber StrongArm, which feels practically indestructible, the Rite Edge feels disposable. It performs adequately for light tasks, but I wouldn’t rely on it for anything demanding.
Breaking Down the Features of Rite Edge Flying Dragon Linerlock Pur
Specifications
- Blade Length: 3.5 inches. This makes it compact and easy to carry.
- Closed Length: 4.5 inches. It’s small enough to fit comfortably in a pocket.
- Blade Material: Stainless Steel. This should provide decent corrosion resistance.
- Handle Material: Black Aluminum. This contributes to the knife’s lightweight design.
- Weight: 0.34 lb. Light enough for comfortable everyday carry.
- Additional Features: Assisted Opening, Pocket Clip, Belt/Cord Cutter, Glass Breaker, Dragon Handle Artwork. These features add to the knife’s versatility.
- Color: Purple. This is a purely aesthetic choice and might not appeal to everyone.
These specifications suggest a knife intended for light-duty tasks and convenience. The stainless steel blade and aluminum handle should offer reasonable durability for the price, while the added features attempt to increase its utility. The purple color and dragon artwork are purely cosmetic and may be a deal-breaker for some users.
Performance & Functionality
The Rite Edge Flying Dragon Linerlock Pur performs adequately for basic cutting tasks. The assisted opening is quick and reliable, making it easy to deploy the blade one-handed. The blade is sharp enough out of the box for general use, though it requires frequent sharpening to maintain a good edge.
Its strengths lie in its compact size, lightweight design, and assisted opening mechanism. The weaknesses include a somewhat flimsy liner lock, a blade that doesn’t hold an edge well, and a grip that can become slippery. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly knife, but it doesn’t exceed them in any significant way.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is functional, if not particularly appealing. The aluminum handle is lightweight and provides a decent grip, though the texturing could be more aggressive. The dragon artwork is a matter of personal taste; some may find it whimsical, while others will find it tacky.
It is fairly user-friendly, with the assisted opening and liner lock being easy to operate. There’s no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability appears to be limited. The purple coating on the blade is prone to scratching, and the liner lock feels like a potential point of failure. With proper care and light use, it might last for a reasonable amount of time.
Maintenance is simple – cleaning the blade and handle with a damp cloth and occasionally oiling the pivot point. Repair might be difficult due to the riveted construction and the availability of replacement parts.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rite Edge Flying Dragon Linerlock Pur comes with a pocket clip, which is a welcome addition. There are no other included accessories. Customization options are limited.
Due to its budget-friendly nature and proprietary design, aftermarket accessories are unlikely to be readily available. It’s not compatible with accessories from other brands.
Pros and Cons of Rite Edge Flying Dragon Linerlock Pur
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it a great option for budget-conscious buyers.
- Assisted opening provides quick and easy blade deployment.
- Lightweight design ensures comfortable everyday carry.
- Built-in belt cutter and glass breaker offer additional functionality.
- Pocket clip allows for convenient and secure carry.
Cons
- Liner lock feels flimsy and may not be reliable under heavy use.
- Purple coating on the blade is prone to scratching and wear.
- Blade steel doesn’t hold an edge particularly well.
Who Should Buy Rite Edge Flying Dragon Linerlock Pur?
The Rite Edge Flying Dragon Linerlock Pur is perfect for: Individuals seeking an inexpensive, entry-level EDC knife for light-duty tasks. Someone looking for a backup knife to keep in their car or toolbox. People who appreciate the novelty design.
Who should skip this product? Anyone who needs a reliable and durable knife for demanding tasks. Experienced knife users who prioritize high-quality materials and construction. Anyone who dislikes the purple blade and dragon artwork.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge.
Conclusion on Rite Edge Flying Dragon Linerlock Pur
The Rite Edge Flying Dragon Linerlock Pur is a budget-friendly knife that offers decent functionality for its price. It is not a high-end tactical tool, but it performs adequately for light-duty tasks. The purple blade and dragon artwork may not appeal to everyone, but the assisted opening, belt cutter, and glass breaker add to its versatility.
The value proposition is reasonable; for around $12, you get a functional knife with several useful features. I would recommend it to someone looking for a cheap, disposable knife for basic tasks. Just don’t expect it to perform like a Zero Tolerance or Chris Reeve. If you need a dependable and long-lasting knife, you should invest in a higher-quality option. Buy it if you need a cheap tool and dont want to feel guilty if it gets lost or damaged.